I had my middle and lower lobe of my right lung removed this past July. The chest tube is the worst part you will deal with after surgery. It stays in for about 2 days. I remember waking up after surgery noticing a sharp pain in my shoulder and thought why is my shoulder hurting?! The tube is placed in your back from your shoulder to the bottom of your lung to remove fluid. They will try the best they can to manage your pain. Where are you having the surgery at? Mine was at Mayo and it was done via VATS which is 3 small incisions. I only had pain with my incisions up to 3 weeks. I used a heating pad which made it feel more comfortable. The recliner was my best friend. I found it difficult to lay in my bed at first. Any other questions please ask. You will do great and find such relief that the cancer is removed after surgery!